Broadcasters Association Inducted Hall of Fame Members

The Connecticut Broadcasters Association honored industry veterans and station talent at its annual awards ceremony.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Awards

Broadcasters Association Inducted Hall of Fame Members

The Connecticut Broadcasters Association held its annual Hall of Fame induction and awards ceremony on Wednesday. The event celebrated the long-term dedication of radio and television professionals from across the state.

Why it matters

The ceremony highlights the contributions of veteran broadcasters who have shaped the state's media landscape over several decades. These awards recognize professional excellence and longevity in a rapidly changing industry.

Mike Lapitino has served 40 years at 99.1 WPLR, while Courtney Nadeau marks over 30 years at KISS 95.7. Mike Rice owned WILI-AM and WILI in Willimantic for 46 years.

The players

Mike Lapitino

He is a radio professional recognized for his four-decade career at 99.1 WPLR.

Courtney Nadeau

She is a longtime radio talent who has contributed to KISS 95.7 for over three decades.

Mike Rice

He is a veteran broadcaster who owned and operated WILI-AM and WILI in Willimantic for 46 years.

Keith Kountz

He is a broadcast pioneer who became the first Black primary evening news anchor at a Connecticut television station in 1999.

Connecticut Broadcasters Association

This organization represents radio and television stations across the state and oversees industry awards and hall of fame inductions.

The details

The Connecticut Broadcasters Association recognized several figures, including Mike Lapitino, Courtney Nadeau, and Mike Rice, for their extensive service. Winners in competitive categories included 92.5 WWYZ for Station of the Year and Adam Rivers for Best Air Personality, among others.

October 7, 2026: The Hall of Fame and awards event occurred.
1976: Mike Lapitino began his radio career.
1986: Mike Lapitino joined 99.1 WPLR.
1999: Keith Kountz became a primary evening news anchor.
2005: Mike Rice sold his radio stations.

Culture Shift

This event reflects a broader trend of celebrating long-term career milestones within the regional media market. It builds on a history of media recognition that includes milestones such as the 1999 appointment of Keith Kountz as a primary anchor.

The awards highlight stations and personalities that residents encounter daily in their cars and homes. These recognitions help listeners identify top-rated local programming and veteran talent throughout the state.

The takeaway

Recognizing long-term radio talent highlights the importance of local media in building community connection. Listeners can explore the work of these veterans to better understand the history of their local stations.